On Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019, the DMAE freshmen awkwardly shuffled into the North Library, perplexed with their attendance at the Teen PEP workshop. After all, the freshmen were unaware of what the Teen Prevention Education Program was, however, they would walk out smarter at the end of the period. The workshop focused on the societal pressure teens have to engage in sexual activities and the benefits of abstaining from them. 

“If you aren’t ready to talk about it then you definitely aren’t ready to do it,” were wise words offered by senior Gianna Scarpa. 

The main skit, “Am I Ready to Have Sex?” dove into the doubts teens themselves have about sex and encouraged them to realize such hesitation as a warning sign, a cue to stop themselves before it’s too late. 

“It helped me understand the importance of safe sex and communication between two people” freshman Eunice Lee said.

Teen PEP director Maria Buckley was overjoyed with the leadership shown by the Teen PEP members and had high spirits for the program’s future. 

“Kids learn best from other kids, especially for a topic this sensitive,” Ms. Buckley stated. 

Teacher Nicholas Serpico who was at the presentation explained that it was a different way for the kids to learn about sex.

“They don’t always want to hear it from a grown-up. This makes it fun for them, more interactive,” Mr. Serpico explained. 

By the end of the period, the freshmen group had gained a new understanding of abstinence and the responsibility that comes with sex.